American boxer and social media personality Jake Paul is set to headline a major boxing event in Dubai on December 24, 2026, marking his first professional fight in the city. The announcement was made yesterday by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), with further details including the identity of Paul’s opponent expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.

Paul, 29, holds a professional record of 12 wins and 2 losses. This upcoming bout will come exactly one year after his high-profile match against former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua in December 2025, during which Paul sustained a broken jaw. Despite that setback, he has expressed renewed determination to continue his boxing career. "Nothing that’s happened has changed my belief in myself or what I’m working toward. I’m hungrier than ever," Paul said, emphasizing his willingness to take on challenging opponents.

The event forms part of a collaborative effort between the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and MVP. Khalfan Belhoul, Vice-Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, welcomed Paul’s return to the ring, highlighting Dubai’s growing stature as a hub for international sporting occasions. Belhoul noted that the emirate's ongoing efforts aim to attract top athletes, promoters, and spectators from around the world, positioning Dubai as a preferred global destination for sports.

Paul also acknowledged Dubai’s image as a city known for ambition and boundary-breaking, stating that the location is fitting for his comeback. He hinted at a competitive opponent yet to be confirmed, teasing, "We’ve got plenty of names on the list; let’s see who signs the contract."

Paul’s previous matches have drawn significant global viewership, including a November 2024 bout against Mike Tyson and the aforementioned fight with Joshua. The forthcoming event is expected to further elevate Dubai’s profile in the international boxing scene as it looks to host prominent sporting spectacles during the holiday season.